Comments about Forgetfulness by Billy Collins

Your name showed up on the bottom of my page, stating people who read your poems also read mine. Wow, they must just be clicking around. Your poetry is so skillful, its obvious you've put years of passion into perfecting this emerging American pastime, the poetic arts!

Mr Collins,
I heard you on NPR and was moved to writing. You've inspired me, not beyond words, but to them. The essence of your writing has gone straight to my very core. As if I've known you so very long. Thank you.
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The idea that we gradually lose from our hearts the lines of our favourite love-poems, as well as other precious contents as we grow old and forgetful is simply heart-breaking. I am reminded of a Borges' poem called 'Limits'. But, of course, there is a funny side to the human condition and Collins finds it here. His image of memories retiring to a 'little fishing village where there are no phones' is lovely. This was the seventh Billy Collins poem I read in a single go and first I found to which I could truly say: Yes! Think I will carry it around with me for the rest of the day - that is, if I don't forget it...B.Purdy.
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